Exeter Respect
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Get ready for a vibrant weekend of culture and community at Exeter Respect Festival! On Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2026, the historic Exeter Cathedral in the heart of Devon will become the festival grounds for celebrating diversity and unity. Under this year's inspiring theme of 'Different Roots, One Community', visitors of all backgrounds will join together to enjoy an uplifting program of music, art, and discussion. Exeter Respect Festival is all about bringing people together. Neighbors, new friends and families join in a colourful celebration where differences are celebrated and respect is shared.
The festival will feature a dynamic lineup of entertainment across multiple stages, with live music and dance performances representing cultures from around the world. Listen to soulful world music, energetic dance troupes, or local bands playing on the cathedral green. You can also dive into creative arts and thought-provoking talks: storytelling circles, workshops and dialogue sessions will explore themes of social justice, equality and community spirit. Don't miss the lively marketplace with food stalls serving delicious international cuisines, from spicy curries to sweet treats, offering a taste of the globe right in the city centre. Nearby artisan stalls and community booths invite you to browse crafts and learn about local projects and charities working for positive change.
Families and children are very welcome, too! The festival includes many fun, hands-on activities for younger festival-goers. Little ones can enjoy craft workshops, face painting, puppet shows and interactive games designed to spark creativity and understanding. Meanwhile, adults can relax among friends, meet local artists, or take a moment to soak in the uplifting atmosphere of the cathedral grounds. Throughout the weekend, the ancient architecture of Exeter Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop, adding a touch of history and grandeur to this modern celebration. The combination of a lively festival and the beautiful church setting makes for an unforgettable experience.
Exeter Respect Festival is a community-driven event organized by volunteers who care about inclusivity and culture. Every aspect of the festival emphasizes friendship, understanding and fun. People often comment on the warm, welcoming vibe: it feels like one big gathering where everyone belongs. Whether you come to dance to world rhythms, sample new flavours, or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon of live music and art, you'll find plenty to see and do. Admission usually includes a small donation to help support the festival, which keeps it accessible to all.
By coming to Exeter Respect, you join a joyous celebration that highlights what unites us. It's more than a festival; it's a chance to meet new people, discover inspiring talents and share the spirit of community in a safe and friendly environment. Come with family or friends and make memories while celebrating diversity in the heart of Exeter. Don't miss this remarkable weekend event that brings people together under one roof (or rather, under the cathedral's vaulted arches)!
Exeter Cathedral is centrally located in the heart of Exeter, making it easy to reach by various modes of transport. The city benefits from two main train stations: Exeter St Davids (on the Great Western Main Line) and Exeter Central (on local lines). Frequent trains run from London (Paddington), Bristol, Birmingham, and Plymouth to Exeter. After arriving by train, visitors can take a short walk or local bus into the city centre to reach the cathedral grounds. Exeter also has a busy city-centre bus and coach station: National Express and other long-distance coaches stop there, within easy walking distance of the Cathedral Green. Stagecoach South West operates local buses from surrounding areas; several routes stop on High Street, Sidwell Street, or nearby roads right by the cathedral.
If you're driving, Exeter is accessible via the M5 motorway (junctions 29A, 30 or 31) and the A38/A30. Signs will guide drivers toward the City Centre or Exeter Cathedral. Note that parking immediately next to the cathedral is very limited, so visitors often use nearby city-centre car parks or one of Exeter's park-and-ride sites (such as Sowton or Honiton Road). These park-and-ride lots provide frequent bus service into the centre, which is useful for avoiding busy traffic.
For air travel, Exeter International Airport (EXT) lies about 15-20 minutes east of the city centre by road. It offers flights to several UK and European destinations. From the airport you can take a taxi or the Stagecoach bus (#56) to reach the city centre in around 15-20 minutes. Other larger airports like Bristol, Birmingham and London are farther away (roughly 1½–2½ hours by road or rail), and coaches or trains run frequently between them and Exeter.
Exeter offers a variety of accommodation near the city centre and cathedral. Hotels, inns, guesthouses and B&Bs can be found along Central, Southernhay, Queen Street and Cathedral Green areas. University halls (when available) and serviced apartments also appear in summer. It's wise to book early for busy weekends. Staying close by means you can easily walk back after enjoying Exeter's restaurants, pubs and sights, making for a convenient and enjoyable visit.
Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, EX11HS
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